How do you know if you need surgery for your hernia? Hernia symptoms can range in form and severity, or some may not have symptoms at all. Not all hernias require immediate surgery, but most do need to be addressed eventually and repaired. There are multiple surgical options available now for hernia repair, most of which will have you back on your feet in just a couple of days.
What Causes Hernias?
Hernias occur when an organ or some internal tissue bulges through a tear in muscles in the abdominal wall. They are caused by such acts as coughing or sneezing, or lifting heavy objects. The pressure these activities put on the abdominal area can force the organ or tissue outward through the weakened muscles.
When Do Hernias Need Surgical Repair?
Multiple factors contribute to whether a hernia needs to be surgically repaired. Many hernias go unnoticed for a couple of years until they start causing pain and discomfort. It’s important to know that hernias do not heal on their own and will worsen with time. If you begin experiencing pain related to your hernia that worsens with time or interferes with your daily life, it may be time to consider surgical options. The size and location of the hernia are other factors that can determine if it will need to be corrected surgically.
What Types of Surgeries are Performed to Repair Hernias?
Repairing a hernia via surgery, also known as herniorrhaphy, is a relatively common surgery. There are a few different options your doctor may consider when determining what surgery is suitable for you:
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Laparoscopic surgery is performed by making small incisions and inserting a laparoscope into an incision near the belly button. The laparoscope is attached to a tiny camera that gives your surgeon a view inside the body. Your abdomen will be inflated with a harmless gas to allow for a better visual of your hernia and the needed repair. Your incisions will be closed with stitches or surgical tape. Because the incisions are very small, scarring is minimal with this type of surgery.
Open Hernia Repair: In open surgery, one larger incision is made instead of the small incisions made during laparoscopic surgery. Open surgery may be recommended depending on the size and location of the hernia. Though not common, sometimes a laparoscopic surgery may need to be converted to open surgery if the hernia cannot be repaired laparoscopically
What Should I Expect After Hernia Repair Surgery?
Hernia surgery is typically an outpatient surgery, meaning you’ll be released to go home in a few hours. If you have open surgery, you’ll likely feel fine within a few days but will have restrictions on activities and exercise for several weeks. If your surgery is performed laparoscopically, your recovery time can be reduced from weeks down to days.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a hernia, Dr. Jamie Bohanon at Lane Surgery Group can help determine what medical treatment is right for you. Contact us at 225-570-2489 today to book an appointment.
